Lower Mortality Research Articles

Abstract 4119078: Adjunctive pulmonary artery catheter for patients with cardiogenic shock treated with impella: a meta-analysis

Introduction: The efficacy and safety of use and impact of pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) treated with Impella remains unclear. The use of PAC in conjunction with Impella for patients with CS might be associated with improved clinical outcomes and increased safety compared to the use of Impella alone. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing Impella with versus without PAC for patients with CS. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for studies comparing PAC use in patients with CS treated with Impella. We pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) applying random-effects model. We used R version 4.3.2 for statistical analyses. Results: We included two observational studies comprising 11,463 patients, of whom 6,058 (53%) had PAC. Compared with no PAC, the use of PAC was associated with a significantly lower in short-term mortality rates (37% vs. 42%; OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.77-0.90; p<0.01; Figure 1A). There was no significant difference in the incidence of arrhythmias 59% vs. 63%; OR 1.14; 95% CI 0.92-1.41 p=0.44; Figure 1B) or renal complications between groups (47% vs. 50%; OR 1.08; 95% CI 1.00-1.17; p=0.06; Figure 1C). Conclusions: In patients with CS, adjunctive PAC to Impella is associated with lower mortality rates, but no significant difference in arrhythmias and renal complications. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to further validate this results.

Abstract 4131486: Cardiovascular Mortality in Children and Young Adults: Trends and Demographic Differences in the United States, 1999 to 2021

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in the U.S. younger population is on the rise. However, limited data is available on CVD-related mortality trends in this population. Aim: This study aimed to assess the temporal trends and demographic differences in CVD-related mortality among the U.S. youth. Methods: The CDC WONDER dataset was analyzed from 1999-2021 for CVD-related mortality in children and young adults (age <25 years). Socio-demographic data including gender, race/ethnicity, urbanization status and census region was acquired. Age adjusted mortality rates (AAMR) per 100,000 persons and annual percent changes (APCs) with 95% confidence interval (CIs) were calculated. Results: Between 1999-2021, a total 54,283 CVD-related deaths occurred among the youth in the U.S. The overall AAMR declined from 1999-2008 (APC, -1.15 [-3.4 to 0.53]), followed by sharp decrease from 2008-2012 (APC, -3.28 [-4.68 to 0.86]). The AAMR continued to decrease steadily from 2012 to 2019 (APC: -1.20, [-3.76 to -0.06]), followed by a sharp increase in from 2019 to 2021, (APC, 3.03 [-0.66 to 5.12]). Males consistently had higher AAMRs than females from 1999 (AAMR males: 2.99 vs females: 2.3) to 2021 (AAMR males: 2.39 vs females: 1.74). Non-Hispanic (NH) Black or African Americans had the highest AAMR in 2020 (3.68), followed by NH Whites (1.71), Hispanic or Latinos (1.59), and Asian and Pacific Islanders (1.2). AAMRs also showed significant variations across different regions (overall AAMR West 1.81; Northeast 1.93; Midwest 2.3; South 2.69). Metropolitan areas (2.23) consistently had lower mortality rates than nonmetropolitan areas (2.59). Conclusion: Our analysis revealed that CVD-related mortality in the youth declined from 1999-2019, followed by an increase in 2020 to 2021. Highest mortality rates were seen in males, Black or African Americans, Western region of the U.S, and nonmetropolitan areas. Tailored interventions are necessitated to decrease the burden of CVD-related mortality in these demographics among children and young adults in the United States.

Unlocking the potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in revolutionizing type 2 diabetes management: A comprehensive review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a long-term metabolic disorder caused by inadequate production and resistance to insulin. The prevalence of DM is rapidly increasing, with type 2 diabetes (T2D) accounting for more than 90% of cases. Despite new treatments, many patients with T2D do not meet their glycemic targets due to clinical inertia. This review provides an overview of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in the management of T2D. The review synthesizes data from clinical trials and meta-analyses on the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of GLP-1 RAs. It also discusses the mechanisms of action, classification, and barriers to adherence and persistence in therapy. GLP-1 RAs improve glycemic control by lowering A1C levels and promoting weight loss. They have cardioprotective effects and may reduce endothelial inflammation, oxidative stress, and blood pressure. Adherence to GLP-1 RAs is better with once-weekly injections, though gastrointestinal side effects and cost can affect persistence. Semaglutide and liraglutide have shown significant weight reduction, with semaglutide being particularly effective. GLP-1 RAs are cost-effective due to reduced healthcare costs associated with fewer hospitalizations and lower mortality rates. Safety concerns include gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, and rare cases of diabetic retinopathy and thyroid C-cell tumors. For clinical practice, GLP-1 RAs represent a valuable option not only for glycemic control but also for weight management and cardiovascular protection. Incorporating GLP-1 RAs into treatment plans can improve patient outcomes, and optimizing dosing regimens and addressing barriers such as cost and side effects are crucial to enhancing patient adherence and long-term treatment success.

Abstract 4121812: Longitudinal Trajectory-Based Classification of Heart Failure with preserved Ejection Fraction: A Machine Learning Approach

Background: Heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a complex syndrome characterized by heterogeneous pathophysiology and dynamic changes in cardiac structure and function. Current research predominantly focuses on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) or left ventricular structures with predefined categories. This study hypothesized that applying unsupervised methodologies to longitudinal echocardiography will reveal distinct trajectory patterns in cardiac structure and function related to clinical outcomes in HFpEF patients. Methods: This retrospective cohort study, conducted at UC Davis Medical Center (2014 to 2022), consisted of adult patients with HFpEF. The inclusion criteria included ICD HF codes, a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥50%, and a Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) ≥100 pg/ml or N-terminal-pro BNP (NT-proBNP) ≥225 pg/ml. Longitudinal data were analyzed using unsupervised machine learning, including UMAP for dimensionality reduction and Gaussian Mixture Models for clustering. Primary and secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality and changes in BNP levels, respectively. Results: The study included 1,626 patients. The cohort had a median age of 69 years, was 57.5% female, and 51.8% white. Three distinct echocardiographic trajectory patterns emerged (p<.05) among the HFpEF cohort. Trajectory #1 (n=568) exhibited a high-stable pattern with the highest mortality rates, Trajectory #2 (n=512) showed a high-decreasing pattern with high mortality rates, and Trajectory #3 (n=546) had a low-increasing pattern with the lowest mortality rates. Trajectories varied significantly in baseline characteristics and longitudinal echocardiographic changes, with Trajectory #3 having a lower baseline left ventricular mass index (p<.001) and a higher mean arterial pressure ( p =.001) compared to the other trajectories. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated significant differences in survival among the trajectories ( p =.004). Conclusion: The study utilized unsupervised analysis of longitudinal echocardiographic data to identify three distinct HFpEF trajectories, each associated with unique clinical features and outcomes. These findings underscore the heterogeneity of HFpEF and highlight the potential trajectory-based patient stratification to improve targeted intervention strategies. Future validation in larger, multicenter cohorts is warranted to enhance HFpEF management and patient prognosis.

Abstract 4134851: Demographic and regional disparities in cerebrovascular disease mortality among adult patients with pre-existing atherosclerosis in the United States from 1999-2020

Introduction: Atherosclerosis (ATH) is a major risk factor for cerebrovascular disease (CEVD), with persistent mortality disparities. Our study aims to identify vulnerable regions and demographics in the US adult population with pre-existing ATH at risk of CEVD. Methods: CDC Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) was used to access National Vital Statistics System data from 1999 to 2020. ATH-related CEVD was identified using CEVD as the underlying cause of death and ATH as a contributing cause of death. Results were presented as age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMR) per 100,000 population. Joinpoint regression was used to examine changes in trend and annual percentage change (APC). Results: A total of 325,408 CEVD occurred in patients with ATH from 1999 to 2020 (AAMR = 6.9, 95% CI: 6.8-7). Increased mortality rates were observed in males (AAMR = 6.3) as compared to females (AAMR = 5.1) (Figure, Panel A). AAMRs were highest in Non-Hispanic Whites [NHW] (5.7, 95% CI: 5.7 - 5.8), followed by non-Hispanic blacks [NHB] (5.5, 95% CI: 5.4 - 5.5), Hispanics (4.1, 95% CI: 4.0 - 4.1) and non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native [NH-AIAN] (3.6, 95% CI: 3.4 - 3.8). Non-Hispanic Asian/Pacific Islander [NH-API] had the lowest mortality rates (3.4, 95% CI: 3.4 - 3.5). Region-wise analysis revealed that mortality rates were highest in the West (6.4, 95% CI: 6.3-6.4) and Midwest (6.2, 95% CI: 6.1-6.2). The South reported the rate of 5.5 (95% CI: 5.5-5.6), while the Northeast had the lowest rate (4.4, 95% CI: 4.3-4.4). Mortality rates were consistently higher in rural areas (6.1, 95% CI: 6.0-6.1) compared to urban areas (5.3, 95% CI: 5.3-5.4) throughout the study period. Overall AAMR rose from 9.0 in 1999 to 10.4 in 2001, then steadily declined before increasing to 3.6 from 2016 to 2020 (APC: 0.41). After an initial decline, AAMR increased in men (APC: 1.09) from 2016 and in women (APC: 5.09) from 2018. AAMR also increased among NH-API (APC: 8.9) and NHB (APC: 8.3) from 2018 onwards, and NHW (APC: 0.1) from 2016 (Figure, Panel B). Conclusions: Our study reveals significant mortality disparities from CEVD in patients with ATH, identifying males, NHW, and residents in the West and Midwest as particularly at increased risk. Rural areas consistently show higher mortality rates than urban areas. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and strategic provision of healthcare resources to improve outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Abstract 4135338: Associations between plant-based diets and total mortality among Chinese older participants with cardiometabolic diseases: a prospective cohort study

Background and Aims: Plant-based diets have been associated with a lower risk of total mortality among generally health populations. However, the associations of plant-based diets with total mortality remain unclear among older people with cardiometabolic diseases, who have an elevated risk of mortality. Methods: We prospectively followed 4,485 participants (mean age: 84 years) from the China Prospective Longitudinal Survey of Health and Longevity (2006-2018), who had cardiometabolic disease in 2006. Dietary data were collected at baseline using a food-frequency questionnaire. Using these data, we created an overall plant-based diet index (PDI), in which plant-based foods received positive scores while animal foods (meat, fish and aquatic products, eggs, milk, animal fats) received reversed scores accordingly. We also created a healthful plant-based diet index (hPDI), where healthy plant-based foods (whole grains, vegetables, vegetable oils, fresh fruits, legumes, beans, garlic, nuts, tea) received positive scores, while less healthy plant-based foods (refined grains, pickles, sugar, preserved vegetables) and animal-based foods were given reversed scores. In addition, an unhealthful plant-based diet index (uPDI) was created by assigning positive scores to less healthy plant-based foods while reverse scores to healthy plant-based foods and animal-based foods. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to compute hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for total mortality, with adjustment for demographics, dietary and lifestyle factors, and medical history. Results: During a 12 years of follow-up, 2,881 deaths were recorded. A higher score from PDI and hPDI was associated with a lower risk total mortality among participants with cardiometabolic diseases (HR and 95% CI for extreme quintiles of PDIs: 0.85, 95% CI 0.75–0.96, P trend < 0.001; hPDI: 0.84 (0.74–0.94), P trend < 0.001). A higher uPDI score was associated with a higher total mortality among participants with cardiometabolic diseases (uPDI: 1.28 (1.13-1.47), P trend < 0.001). These results were consistent in subgroup analyses by age, sex, smoking status, alcohol consumption, education level, physical activity, and BMI. Conclusion: Our study suggests that among older Chinese participants with cardiometabolic diseases, adherence to an overall plant-based diet or a healthful plant-based diet, is associated with a lower total mortality, while an unhealthful plant-based diet was associated with a higher total mortality.

Total, dietary, and supplemental calcium intake and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality among U.S. adults: a prospective cohort study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

The study aimed to investigate the association of total, dietary, or supplemental calcium intake with all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality in American adults. This prospective cohort study used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2018. Participants were categorized into tertiles based on calcium intake. Risks of all-cause, cancer, or cardiovascular mortality and the dose-response relationship were estimated using weighted Cox proportional hazard regression and restricted cubic splines, with adjustments for demographic characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory parameters, and dietary data. In total, 6172 participants were included (median age: 61 years), and 869 had died (CVD:217, cancer:224) during a median follow-up of 81 months. After adjusting for confounders, higher total calcium(≥ 1660mg/d) [HR, 95%CI: 0.867 (0.865-0.869)], dietary calcium(≥ 1075mg/d) [HR, 95%CI: 0.711 (0.709-0.713)], and supplemental calcium (≥ 600mg/d) [HR, 95%CI: 0.786 (0.784-0.787)] intake groups were associated with lower all-cause mortality risk compared to the lowest intake group. Similar beneficial associations were found for cardiovascular, cancer mortality, and across subgroups of various ages, genders, races and body mass indexes. In the dose-response analysis, a 'J-shaped' nonlinear relationship was observed between calcium intake and the risk of all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality. Higher levels of total, dietary, or supplemental calcium were associated with lower all-cause, cardiovascular, or cancer mortality. However, a nonlinear association between calcium intake and mortality suggested that excessive calcium intake beyond a certain threshold may increase mortality risk.

Abstract 4132152: Cardiovascular Procedures for Hospitalized Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy requiring Valvular Heart Repair/Replacement or Coronary Artery Revascularizations: A Risk-Stratified Analysis of a Large National Database

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is associated with increased mortality mainly due to sudden cardiac arrest. However, it is not clear how HCM affects in-hospital mortality among patients hospitalized due to other cardiovascular conditions requiring intervention. Methods: National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried from 2016 to 2020 to identify hospitalized patients with a diagnosis of HCM. Patients with HCM were stratified based on their concomitant cardiovascular conditions necessitating interventions. Results: Data pertinent to 278,995 admission cases with HCM was analyzed. Of this, 15,035 cases had concomitant non-ST elevation MI (NSTEMI), and 1,230 cases had ST-elevation MI (STEMI). Additionally, 15,100 cases were diagnosed with aortic valve diseases (AVD), 33,580 had concomitant mitral valve diseases (MVD), 5,580 cases had tricuspid valve diseases (TVD), and 16,815 cases had pulmonary valve diseases (PVD). Cardiovascular procedures were more common among HCM patients with concomitant STEMI (43.5%) followed by HCM patients with AVD (17.1%) and HCM patients with NSTEMI (16.9%). Stratification of mortality rate based on cardiovascular procedures and the underlying indication revealed CABG to have the highest mortality rate for HCM patients with STEMI (25%), followed by PCI for HCM patients with STEMI and HFrEF (12.5%). HCM patients with NSTEMI undergoing revascularization had higher mortality when PCI was performed for HFrEF cases and when CABG was performed for HFpEF cases. For HCM patients with AVD requiring repair or replacement, TAVR was superior to SAVR if performed in patients with HFpEF but was inferior among HFrEF subgroup in terms of in-hospital mortality. For subgroup of HCM patients with MVD, transcatheter replacement was associated with a lower mortality than surgical repair regardless of concomitant heart failure. Data was insufficient for HCM patients with concomitant TVD or PVD undergoing repair or replacement procedures. Conclusions: Among hospitalized patients with HCM, concomitant HFrEF but not HFpEF is associated with a significantly higher mortality rate regardless of the underlying cardiovascular conditions requiring revascularization or heart valvular repair. A more comprehensive preoperative risk assessment could delineate the ideal procedures for HCM patients with certain comorbidities and specific need.

Abstract 4136202: Incident Hypertension and Survival Outcomes After Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Initiation

Introduction: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are commonly used as anticancer agents linked with dramatic antitumor response but are associated with cardiotoxicity. Recent isolated reports have suggested ICIs may link with hypertension (HTN) after years of treatment. Yet, the timing and long-term ramifications of this HTN are unknown. Methods: From a large cohort of well-phenotyped cancer patients treated with ICIs from 2011-2022, we assessed the incidence of new or worsened HTN [systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥130 mmHg (or in a higher HTN stage) on two occasions within a three-month period or addition of an antihypertensive medication] after ICI initiation. Secondary endpoints included major cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as symptomatic arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, or cardiac death. Observed incident HTN rates were compared to Framingham-predicted rates, using JNC 8 cutoffs of 140/90 mmHg. Landmark analysis, excluding patients who were observed to have new HTN but had SBPs ≥130 mmHg on two occasions within six-months prior to ICI initiation, identified patients with possible undiagnosed HTN. Multivariable regression and survival analysis were used to define factors associated with new worsened HTN and MACE and the relationship between SBP increase and MACE risk. Further, the effect of standard antihypertensive classes on the prevention of ICI-related HTN will be assessed. Results: Overall, from 312 patients treated with ICIs (mean age 63.5 years, 67.4% baseline HTN, 11.0% on dual ICI-therapy), 50.0% (156/312) developed new or worsened HTN over a mean of 27 months follow-up. Cumulative incidence of new HTN by 1-year was 50.0% wherein the mean peak increase in SBP was 12 mmHg. In landmark analysis, excluding those with undiagnosed HTN and applying the JNC 8 cutoff of ≥140/90 mmHg, the observed new HTN rate was 21.4% at 1 year, >2-fold higher than the Framingham-predicted rate of 9.3% (RR 2.3, P <0.0001). In those with preexisting HTN, 49% developed worsened HTN. In multivariate analysis, only time on ICI treatment, ECOG status, and autoimmune disease history were associated with new or worsened HTN after ICI-initiation ( P <0.05 for all). Further, only prior autoimmune disease and ECOG status associated with MACE; while beyond traditional cancer factors, only new or worsening HTN associated with lower mortality. Conclusions: Collectively, these data suggest that HTN may be common with ICIs, and prognosticates survival.

The economics of pandemics: Some useful lessons from the past

The mortality crisis induced by historical pandemics has had relevant effects. It expressed a regulatory role in the balance between population and available resources. It reduced the human capital available to work, making greater its bargaining capacity, resulting in an increase in wages. The disappearance of some of the landowners favoured a process of unification of landed properties and a concentration of wealth. The regulatory function of economic processes fostered by the mortality crisis is attenuated with the start of the Industrial Revolution, to the point of almost extinguishing itself in today's pandemic crisis. This notwithstanding, the strategies to combat mortality impose high economic costs and intervene to alter the functionality of a globalized economy. Pandemics continue to represent an element of caesura between historical periods, with a clear distinction between a before and an after. This article describes past pandemics and identifies possible lessons that can be drawn in the economic field from those events, being aware of how distant our connected and globalized world is from those times. Covid-19 has so far caused the deaths of more than two million people. In relative terms the figure is very low in comparison to previous pandemics. The much lower mortality is matched by an incomparable economic damage.

Abstract 4134957: Survival and Cardiac Recovery in Pediatric Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A Long-term Cohort Study of Risk Factors, Prognosis, and Health Outcomes Followed into Adulthood

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the most common cause of pediatric heart failure (HF), but there is limited literature on its long-term prognosis and treatment outcomes. We examined risk factors for long-term morbidity and mortality and outcomes of care in childhood-onset DCM. Methods: Electronic medical records from a tertiary care pediatric hospital (SickKids, Toronto, Canada) were used to retrospectively follow children ages 0–18 years with DCM from January 1, 2001 to July 1, 2017. Provincial healthcare administrative data was used to monitor outcomes recorded outside of SickKids, following patients during the same time period and into adulthood (age >18 years) until August 31, 2023. We compared DCM cases, with or without echocardiographic recovery (LVEDD z score < 2 and LVEF ≥ 55%), and controls matched on sex, age, and urban/rural residence on a range of health and health service outcomes. Primary outcomes included all-cause mortality, heart transplant (HT), and inpatient admission for HF. Among cases, Cox proportional hazards regression with backwards selection was used to identify demographic, disease, and treatment characteristics associated with each primary outcome, with candidate variables selected based on univariate analysis and clinical judgment. Results: We studied 156 patients with DCM and 780 controls for a median of 14.8 years. Median age at the end of follow-up was 16.2 years. Compared with controls, DCM cases had higher rates of all-cause death, HT, and HF admission (all P <0.001), as well as chronic kidney disease ( P <0.001) and diabetes ( P =0.002). Compared to cases with recovered DCM (n=53), non-recovered cases had higher rates of death, HT, and HF admission (all P <0.001). On multivariable analysis, beta blockers were associated with reduced mortality risk (HR 0.343, 95% CI 0.162–0.727). Using any HF medication (HR 0.205, 95% CI 0.102–0.412) and living in an urban versus a rural area (HR 0.166, 95% CI 0.048–0.573) decreased HT risk. Idiopathic (HR 4.16, 95% CI 1.42–12.2) or sarcomeric mutation-related (HR 9.86, 95% CI 2.30–42.3) DCM were associated with higher HT risk than myocarditis-related DCM. Conclusions: While childhood DCM is associated with long-term adverse health and increased health care utilization, patients who recover have improved morbidity and mortality. Treatment (e.g. medication or access to urban specialist care) was associated with lower mortality and HT risk in DCM.

Abstract 4136967: Congestive Heart Failure Impedes Effective Fluid Resuscitation in Sepsis

Background: Fluid resuscitation is recommended in patients with sepsis. Sepsis, however, may be associated with myocardial dysfunction. Additionally, myocardial dysfunction and insufficient cardiac reserves in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) may complicate fluid resuscitation in the setting of sepsis. We aimed to determine whether CHF would affect fluid resuscitation in septic patients admitted to intensive care unit. Outcome of patients with and without CHF were compared. Methods: Unmatched and propensity score matched septic patients with or without CHF were examined in a retrospective cohort of critically ill adults from the MIMIC-IV database by multivariable logistic regression. Mortality and length of stay were compared. Generalized additive models were used for assessing association between fluid resuscitation and in-hospital mortality. Results: Of 24,376 critically ill patients with sepsis, 6838 (28.1%) were also diagnosed with CHF. CHF in septic patients was associated with higher in-hospital mortality with an adjusted odds ratios of 1.25 (95% confidence interval (CI)=1.14-1.37; p<0.001) in unmatched analysis. Compared with patients without CHF, those with CHF had higher in-hospital mortality (14.3% vs. 9.8%, p < 0.001) and received less IV fluid in the first 24 hours of ICU stay (median=1936 ml, IQR=808-3654 vs. 3037, IQR=1810-4585 ml, p<0.001). Similar results were obtained in propensity score matched septic patients with or without CHF. We also found that fluid resuscitation had a U-shaped association with in-hospital mortality with a lowest mortality at roughly 60 ml/kg in the first 24 hours of ICU stay in septic patients without CHF. In septic patients with CHF, liberal fluid resuscitation did not reduce mortality, while restrictive fluid resuscitation was associated with an increased mortality rate. Conclusions: CHF was significantly associated with higher in-hospital mortality among septic patients. Adequate fluid resuscitation improved in-hospital mortality in septic patients without but not with CHF.

Abstract 4137672: Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Outcomes in Heart Failure with Improved Ejection Fraction by Sex

Background: Heart failure with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF) is a growing clinical entity. While males are more likely to present with HFrEF, there remains little understanding of how sex relates to the epidemiology, predictors, and progression of HFimpEF. Research Question: What are the differences in epidemiology, clinical characteristics, medical management, and outcomes in patients (pts) with HFimpEF based on sex. Methods: We identified adults age ≥18 years with incident HFrEF (EF ≤40%) between January 2013 and December 2018 within Kaiser Permanente Northern California, an integrated health system serving >4.5 million members. HFimpEF was defined as subsequent EF measurement >40% within the following 12 months. Sex was based on self-report. Among pts with HFimpEF, we examined guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) use at time of incident HFimpEF, and at 6- and 12-months post-HFimpEF, stratified by sex. The incidence of worsening HF (WHF) events and all-cause death was assessed in a landmark analysis at 12 months post-HFrEF. We compared event rates between patients with HFimpEF and persistent HFrEF using Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for baseline age and EF. Results: Among 12,639 patients with incident HFrEF (female: 36%), 33% experienced HFimpEF. Females were more likely to experience HFimpEF in the 12 months following HFrEF than males (34% vs. 32%, p<0.01). Among pts with HFimpEF, treatment with GDMT was similar among males and females and declined after incident HFimpEF in both sexes (Figure, Panel A). Females had similar rates of WHF or all-cause death compared to males (adjusted [a]HR: 1.10, 95% CI: 0.96, 1.26, P=0.17). Compared with those with persistent HFrEF, pts with HFimpEF had lower rates of WHF or all-cause death, a finding which was consistent by sex (male: aHR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.50 to 0.61, female: aHR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.48 to 0.62; Pinteraction by sex=0.78; Figure, Panel B). Conclusions: HFimpEF is more common among females compared to males, but prognosis is similar. Despite similar medical therapy, GDMT discontinuation after EF improvement is prevalent. Improvement in EF is similarly associated with improved outcomes across sex. Further data are needed to elucidate the differential etiologies of HF by sex.

Direct Aspiration Versus Combined Technique for Anterior Distal, Medium Vessel Occlusions Stroke: The JET Distal Vessel Occlusion Study.

The optimal mechanical thrombectomy technique for distal, medium vessel occlusion (DMVO) stroke remains unknown. We aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of 2 thrombectomy first-line approaches, direct aspiration (DA), and combined technique (CT) in patients with DMVOs. We conducted a retrospective review of a prospectively collected multicenter database of patients with DMVOs (at or distal to M2 and A1), who underwent mechanical thrombectomy with JET D reperfusion catheters between January 2020 and December 2021. The primary end point was the rate of first-pass complete recanalization, defined as modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI) 3. The hemorrhagic complications, the 90 days functional independence rate (modified Rankin Scale 0-2), and mortality were also evaluated. A total of 171 consecutive patients were enrolled (95 in DA and 76 in CT cohort). The 2 groups had comparable demographics and baseline characteristics. The DA group had a higher rate of first-pass effect (40.0% vs 10.5%, P < .001), final mTICI 2b-3 (89.5% vs 71.1%, P = .003) and final mTICI 3 (58.9% vs 28.9%, P < .001), shorter groin to reperfusion time (65 ± 43 min vs 101 ± 60 min, P < .001), and higher rate of 90-day functional independence (63.7% vs 36.1%; P = .001) compared with the CT group. There were no significant differences in hemorrhagic complications between the 2 groups. The DA group showed a lower rate of 90-day mortality (9.9% vs 27.8%; P = .004). In patients with DMVOs, DA with a distal dedicated reperfusion catheter appears to demonstrate better safety and efficacy when compared with the CT using the same catheter.

Abstract 4148074: Radial Artery Pseudoaneurysm Following Transradial Cardiac Catheterization: A Systematic Review and Case Report

Introduction/Background: Transradial cardiac catheterization (TRC) is recommended for patients with acute coronary syndrome over femoral artery catheterization. Randomized controlled trials show TRC has significantly lower rates of bleeding, vascular complications, and mortality in high-risk acute coronary syndrome patients. However, vascular complications like radial artery spasm, occlusion, arteriovenous fistula, perforation, and pseudoaneurysm (PSA) can still occur. Despite TRC's widespread adoption, recent data summarizing radial artery pseudoaneurysm post-TRC is lacking. Research Question/Hypothesis This review aims to identify at-risk patients, present a case of catheterization-related radial artery pseudoaneurysm, and provide diagnostic and management insights. We hypothesize that older patients with hypertension are at higher risk and that early detection and management are associated with low complication rates. Methods/Approach: Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases. Two researchers independently selected articles, extracted data, and evaluated study quality on RA PSA post-TRC (2003–2023). A third reviewer resolved conflicts. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool was used to evaluate bias risk. Additionally, a case report is presented. Results: From 3,262 records, 43 studies were selected, involving 67 patients (58.8% female, median age 73.5 years). Hypertension (39.5%) and atrial fibrillation (27.9%) were the most common comorbidities. Percutaneous interventions like stenting and angioplasty caused 58.1% of cases; diagnostic catheterizations accounted for 37.2%. Ultrasonography diagnosed 83.7% of cases. Symptoms appeared a few hours to four months post-TRC, with pulsatile mass (21.4%) and swelling (14.3%) being the most common, and pain and ecchymosis at 2.4% each. More than half of the patients (51.2%) required surgical intervention, but 66.7% recovered without deficits. Severe complications were rare, affecting fewer than 5%. Conclusions: A literature review of 43 articles with 67 patients suggests older female patients with hypertension may be more prone to radial artery pseudoaneurysm post-TRC. It typically presents as a pulsatile, painful swelling detectable by ultrasound. This complication precludes the use of the radial artery as a conduit for coronary artery bypass grafting. The review highlights the importance of vigilant post-catheterization monitoring to enable early detection and treatment.

Abstract 4126262: The impact of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors on the elderly population with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: data from the real world

Heart failure (HF) remains a disease of increasing prevalence and morbidity. Validation of new lines of therapy in the elderly are required due to the progressive ageing of the world's population and scarce evidence in elderly patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The purpose of our study is to analyse the effect of Angiotensin Receptor–Neprilysin Inhibitors (ARNI) in this subgroup of patients. We conducted a single-centre, real-world observational study. We consecutively enrolled all patients aged ≥75 years diagnosed with HFrEF (defined as an ejection fraction &lt;40%) and theorical indication for treatment with ARNI from November 2019 to January 2021. The main outcomes analysed were all cause mortality and admission due to HF. In order to avoid potential confounding factors, we performed a propensity-score (PS) matched analysis. Patients matching was performed in a 1:1 ratio with the nearest neighbour method. A total of 364 patients were recruited (total population). The mean age was 84.1 years of which 67% were male. 81% were hypertensive and 33.5% diabetic. The main cause of ventricular dysfunction was ischemic with 50.2%. At inclusion 55.8% were in NYHA functional class II and the mean LVEF was 29.8%. After PS matching, we selected 184 patients (study population), 92 with ARNI. As compared with non ARNI group, the ARNI patients showed higher use of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) (59.8% vs 43.5%, p&lt; 0.05) and SGLT2 inhibitors (40.2% vs 6%, p&lt;0.05). Other treatments were otherwise similar in both groups. There were not significant differences in relation with age, etiology or comorbidities between ARNI group and non-ARNI group. During a median follow-up of 39 months, total mortality was 31.5% (58 patients). After a Cox logistic regression analysis, ARNI therapy was shown to be an independent protective variable with respect to total mortality [HR 0.6 (0.4-1), p 0.05]. The figure shows the Kaplan-Meier survival curves for total mortality in patients with and without ARNI treatment. In summary, treatment of HFrEF remains a significant challenge in managing HF patients, especially in the elderly. According to our data, treatment with ARNI in elderly patients with HFrEF was associated with a lower rate of all-cause mortality. Our data show us that ARNI therapy could improve prognosis in the elderly with HFrEF in a real-world study.

Outcomes and Complications of Posterior Fossa Surgery in Sitting Versus Park-Bench Positions

Background/Objectives: Patient positioning during surgery can influence intra- and postoperative complications. Therefore, we assessed the impact of the sitting and park-bench positions on anesthetic parameters and complications in neurosurgical patients. Methods and Patients: For this retrospective study, 314 adults who underwent neurosurgical procedures for posterior fossa pathologies were divided into two groups: sitting (n = 231) and park-bench (n = 83). The following data were collected, monitored, recorded, and compared: age, sex, tumor type, surgical approach, cardiovascular and respiratory complications, and postoperative surgical complications. The association of hypotension with the position was further investigated through multivariate logistic regression models by adjusting for CO2 decrease, desaturation, and documented gas embolism. Results: The average age was significantly lower in the sitting group (55 years, interquartile range (IQR) = 43–63; female proportion = 59.74%) than in the park-bench group (62 years, IQR = 45–74; female proportion = 57.83%) (p &lt; 0.001). Cerebellopontine angle tumors were detected in 37.23% of the patients who underwent an operation in the sitting position and in 7.26% who underwent an operation in the park-bench position (p &lt; 0.001). Patients in the sitting position had significantly greater anesthetic complication (91.77% vs. 71.08%, p &lt; 0.001), hypotension (61.9% vs. 16.87%), and &gt;2 mmHg CO2 decrease (35.06% vs. 15.66%, p &lt; 0.001) incidences. Hypoxemia and death occurred more frequently in the park-bench group (8.43% vs. 1.73% and 6.03% vs. 1.3%, respectively). Conclusions: Compared with the park-bench position, the sitting position was associated with a greater specific anesthetic complication incidence and lower postoperative mortality rate, indicating a need for careful risk-benefit assessment when selecting each individual patient’s surgical position.

Abstract 4138420: Impact of the American Heart Association Get-With-The-Guidelines Heart Failure A.S.I.A. Program in Taiwanese hospitals

Introduction: The American Heart Association (AHA) Get With the Guidelines – Heart Failure program has been implemented for years in the United States with extensive literature supporting its benefits. In 2022, the AHA Heart Failure Adherence to Science Implementation in Asia (HF A.S.I.A.) powered by Get With The Guidelines program was first introduced in five Asian countries. Research Question: This study aims to explore the impact of this program's implementation in Taiwanese hospitals. Methods: Data were sourced from the Taiwan Society of Cardiology-HF-Registry 2020, a prospective registry that tracks HF cases from 27 hospitals in Taiwan between 2020 and 2024. Among these, four hospitals began participating in the HF A.S.I.A. program in January 2022. This study compared patients from hospitals that participated and did not participate in the HF A.S.I.A. program. Results: A total of 1,933 HF patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 40% were included, comprising 460 participants from the HF A.S.I.A. program and 1,473 non-participants. The HF A.S.I.A. group was younger, had significantly lower systolic blood pressure, larger left ventricular diameter, and experienced more frequent prior hospitalizations for HF. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of baseline heart rate, estimated glomerular filtration rate, blood potassium levels, and most comorbidities. During the study period, due to changes in payment policies, the use of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) decreased in the non-participant group, while the use of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) increased. Conversely, the use of ARNI in the HF A.S.I.A. group continued to rise in line with guideline recommendations and the usage of SGLT2i was higher than in the non-participant group. After adjustment, one-year lost to follow-up rate was significantly lower (3.0% vs. 5.6%, p =0.032) and all-cause mortality rate trended non-significantly lower (7.6% vs. 11.4%, p =0.096) among the HF A.S.I.A. group. Conclusion: Despite enrolling sicker patients, participation in HF A.S.I.A. program was associated with higher quality of HF care.

Abstract 4145845: The Impacts of Albumin Levels on Clinical Outcomes in Patients in the Coronary Care Unit

Background: Hypoalbuminemia is frequently observed in critically ill patients, yet its significance regarding short-term mortality among these patients remains uncertain. We aimed to investigate the impact of albumin levels and their changes on clinical outcomes among patients who were admitted to intensive care units due to cardiac causes. Methods: This is a retrospective, single-center, cohort study. Consecutive patients admitted to coronary care unit (CCU) were enrolled between January 2011 and December 2020. Serum albumin levels were obtained upon CCU admission and tracked for changes. Clinical outcomes were defined as 30-day mortality. Results: A total of 4,004 patients were enrolled. Among them, 1,129 (28.2%) had acute coronary syndrome, 1,915 (47.8%) had coronary artery disease, 1,039 (25.9%) had arrhythmia, and 1,825 (45.6%) had heart failure. There were 643 deaths and 3,361 survivors within 30 days. When comparing to survivors, those who died within 30 days had lower initial albumin levels (3.2 ± 0.9 vs. 3.4 ± 0.8, P &lt; 0.001) and albumin level reduction (-0.1 ± 0.9 vs. 0.0 ± 0.9, P = 0.005). Cox regression multivariate analysis indicated that higher initial albumin levels (HR, 0.638; 95% CI, 0.538 – 0.756, P &lt; 0.001) and increase in albumin levels (HR, 0.638; 95% CI, 0.541 – 0.752, P &lt; 0.001) were independently associated with lower 30-day mortality rates. Conclusions: Higher initial albumin levels and increase in albumin levels were linked to better clinical outcomes in patients admitted to CCU.

Low Income and Mortality in Young Adults Living With Type 2 Diabetes.

Low Income and Mortality in Young Adults Living With Type 2 Diabetes.